Monday, September 23, 2013

Loving All Things Handmade

I love handmade, it's my thing. My dream is to have a home filled with all things handmade and locally crafted. I realise that probably makes me sound like a complete hippy with a house full of wonky clay coffee mugs and crocheted place mats (at least that's the image that pops into my mind!).

But the reality is that handmade has evolved dramatically in the last few years. Now handmade (or locally purchased) means so much more. I love that I can buy high quality, gorgeously designed homewares, linens, art and actually get to know the person behind the goods. Knowing that you're buying something right from the source is such a great thing!

Lately I've been spending (way too much) time shopping at local markets and online at places like Etsy and Down That Little Lane. I am so in love with the people I've been meeting and the things I've been finding and thought I would share some of the gorgeous bits and pieces I've bought or that I'm lusting over.

Are these Billy and Scarlet prints not some of the most gorgeous prints you've ever seen!! I am so in love with the entire range. I've just bought the 'shine like the stars' one to go in Link's room and if I ever have a girl I I know for sure these other two will be making there way into her room. Jillian has also just released the most gorgeous range of nautical prints that are so perfect for a little boys room. Like I said, madly in love!!

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Lincoln, my adorable little monster is a dribbler!! I don't remember needing bibs as much with Max, but they are an absolute must for this little guy. I found these Monkey and Poppet bibs at a local handmade market and they are perfect. I've only bought these two so far, but am planning on stocking up big next time I go to Handmade Redcliffe. Gorgeous patterns and really well made :).

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For just about ever I have been in love with the gorgeous jewelry shop Bip and Bop and the other day I was lucky enough to win a $25 voucher to their etsy store. There was absolutely no way that I was going to be able to stick to $25, so I went ahead and ordered the pieces I have been wanting for ages. I normally spend any spare money on the boys so it was so nice to treat myself! Cannot wait until the package arrives!!

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Is there anything better than receiving a gorgeously wrapped gift? I don't think so :). The other day at my first market stall I was lucky enough to be right next to the creative genius behind Nice Package and I fell head over heels in love (with the wrapping paper.. not her gorgeous husband, because that would just be awkward!). Anyway, go check them out you won't be sorry!!

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When I talk about how much I love buying handmade this is exactly what I'm talking about. I met Clare from Small Green Leaf at a twilight market at my nieces school. I chatted with her for ages about all things handmade and while I was there fell madly in love with her gorgeous range of handmade silver jewelry. Not only do I now have the most stunning custom made silver pendent, I also got to meet the person who made it. Win, win!!

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Katherine from The Print Press Studio is another gorgeous and lovely person that I met at the Twilight Markets. Her range of greeting cards, prints and custom artwork are absolute perfection. I'm notorious for forgetting to give a card with gifts so I'm planning on stocking up on some from her adorable range so that I never forget again!!

There are are about a million more stores that I could mention right now, but I figure I need to stop somewhere or there is a big chance my kitchen will never get clean! I hope you love these little shops as much as I do!!